h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I have three I personally like:
Down near city hall is the Woolworth Building, one of the best early achievements in skyscrapers (Manhattan's favorite architectural form). At 60 stories, this Gothic styled tower doesn't seem so shocking next to the towers of the World Trade Center and other buildings, but in 1913 it must have been amazing to see. It's now mostly apartments, but it has a beautiful mosaic lobby that's worth checking out.

While others may love the Empire State Building, I think the Chrysler Building is more beautiful and distinctive. It was built in 1930 and has a very 20s flair to it with a deco metal stepped dome on the top that extends several stories. For a few months, it was the world's tallest building (77 stories) until the Empire State Building was completed. What is especially fascinating is that there was a race for the heights between it and the Bank of Manhatan tower near Wall Street. The BM people thought they had won the race until the dome was hoisted from inside and the spire erected in about 90 minutes. That must have been a surprise. It's a nice bit of Deco Charm in the skyline and looks especially cool at night.

Finally, I have to suggest the New York Public Library (not a skyscraper). A nice little edifice with two distinctive lions in front, it has served a noble purpose since the library was finished in 1910 to be a resource for all New Yorkers to use, not just the rich and academic. As a result, the building is built like a temple to learning, not unlike the Library of Congress main reading room or the Boston Public Library (two other great buildings).

Anyway, that's what I can think of for now. I found a great website about many buildings (search for "great buildings") which I recommend.

Oh yes...all three of these buildings would be on my list. The Chrysler Building is ugly inside, but the top is incredible. And stays lit all night, to the best of my knowledge. The Empire is turned off at midnight, which is probably an environmentally good thing.

I think the lions in front of the library are featured in the movie "A.I." but how they are featured doesn't jive with where they are located. Neat scene, though. I guess a little poetic justice is probably taken if they are the same lions.

I think the building that impressed me most in NYC is Grand Central Station. It's not so impressive from outside as a lot of it is blocked by the on-ramp to a road but inside is a different matter. If you ever get the chance just have a look at the architecture in there. It's like an art gallery or a church with intricately painted walls, beautiful staircases and ornate pillars.

It's a great place to start a journey from and if you're staying in midtown, it's probably only a couple of blocks from you.